Drop Ceiling Installation

If you want to change the look of your room, try a drop ceiling installation. With a drop ceiling, you'll lower the height of the ceiling so it looks more aesthetically pleasing. This is an intermediate to advanced construction project but with planning and patience you can complete this project and remake your room.

A drop ceiling, sometimes called a suspended ceiling, is the type of ceiling that you see in most office complexes. They are composed of a metal grid that criss crosses the ceiling with lightweight panels inserted into the grid. There are many different types of ceiling panels to choose from, so if you're afraid of having an industrial look in your home you don't have to be. There are many options available that look more natural.

They aren't your typical home improvement project, but they can be a great addition to a basement or other workshop where you need a ceiling. They are also good for first floor ceilings when there is a bathroom overhead. They can be a good alternative to drywall ceilings.

There are many benefits to using a drop ceiling instead of a standard drywall ceiling.

• They are inexpensive – Drop ceiling installation costs just a fraction of what a drywall ceiling costs.
• They are simple to install – Compared to dry wall ceilings, drop ceilings are very simple to install. You can complete the entire project in a full work day.
• They provide sound control – This is especially true in concrete basements. Drop ceilings help minimize echo and make your basement a more pleasant place to be.
• They help cover pipes and wiring – If you have exposed pipes, wiring or other unsightly construction items hanging from your ceiling, drop ceilings are a perfect solution. With the ceiling tiles you can cover up the items but still have access to them if they need repairs.
• They are water resistant – Certain types of ceiling tiles are water resistant, which make them a great choice for basement areas and other ceilings that may leak.
• They can correct an uneven ceiling – Since the metal grids can be adjusted as they are being installed, you can correct an uneven ceiling with the new drop ceiling.

Drop ceilings are installed on two different types of grids, a 2 X 2 grid and a 2 X 4 grid. Once you've decided the type of grid that you want to use, you'll design the grid pattern based on the size of your current ceiling. Once you've designed the pattern of your grid on paper, you'll know how many supplies you need to buy. After getting your supplies, you're ready to install.

1. Determine the height of your drop ceiling. There should be a minimum of 3 inch to 4 inch clearance between the old ceiling and the new ceiling so you can easily install the panels.
2. Use a level to draw a line on the walls where the wall angles will sit. Fasten the wall angles at regular points around that line.
3. Cut the suspension wires to the appropriate length.
4. Secure the suspension wires to the main tees with screw eyes and screw hooks. Add a wire every 4 feet.
5. Add the main tees using your layout drawing. Measure the distance along the top flange of the main tee and mark the width of the ceiling panels.
6. Install all the main tees in the grid pattern across the ceiling. Make sure to use the level frequently so that you can be sure to have a level ceiling.
7. Once all of the main tees are in, install the cross tees using the manufacturer's instructions.
8. Finally, install the ceiling panels.

As you can see, drop ceiling installation is a simple process if you plan your project carefully.

• Samples of Textured Walls
• Apron Sinks
• Interior Painting Techniques

• Glass Tile Backsplash Ideas
• How to Install a Bathtub
• Build a Kitchen Banquette
• Sliding Wood Closet Doors
• Wood Plank Look Ceramic Tile

• Category:Misc. Home Improvement
• Drop Ceiling Tiles
• Basement Remodeling Ideas